The Battle of Kororāreka, or the Burning of Kororāreka, on 11 March 1845, was an engagement of the Flagstaff War in New Zealand. Following the establishment of British control of the islands, war broke out with a small group of the native population which resulted in the fall of the town of Kororāreka, present day Russell, to Māori warriors.
Hone Heke removing the British colors from Flagstaff Hill in Kororāreka
Wood fragments said to be from the flagstaff cut down by Hone Heke. Auckland War Memorial Museum
Russell (Kororāreka) from the bay, 24 January 2018
A memorial in Russell for the men of HMS Hazard who died in the battle
The Flagstaff War, also known as Heke's War, Hōne Heke's Rebellion and the Northern War, was fought between 11 March 1845 and 11 January 1846 in and around the Bay of Islands, New Zealand. The conflict is best remembered for the actions of Hōne Heke who challenged the authority of the British by cutting down the flagstaff on Flagstaff Hill at Kororāreka. The flagstaff had been a gift from Hōne Heke to James Busby, the first British Resident. The Northern War involved many major actions, including the Battle of Kororāreka on 11 March 1845, the Battle of Puketutu on 8 May 1845, the Battle of Ōhaeawai on 23 June 1845 and the siege of Ruapekapeka Pā from 27 December 1845 to 11 January 1846.
Hōne Heke removing the British ensign from Flagstaff Hill.
Hōne Heke Wanted Poster, January 1845
A memorial in Russell for the men of HMS Hazard who died in the battle
Lt Col Hulme burns Otuihu whilst Pomare is held on board HMS North Star, 30 April 1845. Artist: John Williams, 58th Regt, 1845 Alexander Turnbull Library